chiral

(adjective)

ˈkaɪrəl

Definitions

Pertaining to a molecule that is not superimposable on its mirror image.
A dancer in the realm of molecules, twirling uniquely, never matching its mirrored partner.

Example: The molecule is chiral, having a left-handed and a right-handed form.
Having a structure that lacks an internal plane of symmetry.
An enigmatic sculpture of atoms, where symmetry is but a shadow, crafting light in pirouettes.

Example: Chiral centers in molecules often lead to optical activity.

From Greek 'kheir', meaning 'hand', due to the analogy between the handedness of a molecule and human hands.

asymmetric, enantiomorphic, handed

achiral, symmetric